Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

Why Make This Recipe

Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage is a comforting and hearty dish that combines the rich flavors of smoked sausage and cheesy potatoes. It’s perfect for family dinners or weekend gatherings. With its creamy texture and delicious ranch flavor, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s simple to make and requires just a few ingredients!

How to Make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

Ingredients

• 1 lb Monon Meats Smoked sausage, sliced
• 2 lbs potatoes, cubed
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 packet ranch dressing mix
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup green onions, chopped for garnish

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sausage slices until browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Cook until onions are translucent.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cubed potatoes, cooked sausage, onion-garlic mixture, shredded cheese, ranch dressing mix, milk, and melted butter. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 60 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the top is golden brown.
8. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.

How to Serve Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

Serve this dish hot as a main course or a hearty side dish. It pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Enjoy it with family and friends for a comforting meal that’s easy to share.

How to Store Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely. Then, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can also freeze the dish for up to 2 months. Just reheat it in the oven until heated through.

Tips to Make Cheesy Ranch Potatoes and Smoked Sausage

• Make sure to cut the potatoes into uniform cubes for even cooking.
• Feel free to adjust the cheese according to your preference. You can use a mix of cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for extra flavor.
• For added crunch, consider topping the dish with crushed crackers or breadcrumbs before the last 15 minutes of baking.

Variation

You can easily switch up the veggies in this dish. Adding bell peppers, mushrooms, or peas can bring more color and flavor. For a lighter version, swap out the creamy ingredients with low-fat alternatives.

FAQs

Q: Can I use another type of sausage?
A: Yes, you can use any type of smoked sausage, such as turkey sausage or Kielbasa, to suit your taste.

Q: Is it possible to make this recipe without cheese?
A: Absolutely! You can skip the cheese if you prefer a lighter dish or have dairy restrictions. The ranch dressing mix will still add great flavor.

Q: Can I prepare this dish in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve. You may need to adjust the baking time if it’s chilled.